Breakthrough Discovery: neurons That Induce Hibernation-Like State Could Revolutionize Health and Space Travel
A groundbreaking study led by researchers at Georgia State University has identified a novel group of neurons that control the brain-heart-gut axis, capable of inducing a hypometabolic state resembling hibernation. This discovery, published in Nature Metabolism, could transform fields ranging from obesity treatment to cardiometabolic health and even long-duration space travel.the Science Behind the Discovery
The research team, led by Eric Krause, a professor of neuroscience and Georgia Research Alliance Distinguished Investigator, identified a population of neurons near the base of the skull. These neurons relay sensations of mechanical stretch from the gut and heart to the brain. When activated, they mimic the feeling of fullness or increased blood pressure, suppressing eating and lowering heart rate, blood pressure, and whole-body metabolism.
“We found that repeated excitation of the neurons decreased body mass and produced a hypometabolic state without inducing anxiety-like behaviors,” Krause explained. “This is changing what we know about body-to-brain communication and how profoundly it affects physiology and behavior.”
From Mice to Humans: Therapeutic Potential
Using chemogenetic excitation, the team activated these neurons in mice, inducing a torpor-like state characterized by reduced cardiac output, body temperature, and energy expenditure. This state, akin to hibernation, could be leveraged therapeutically for weight loss without the side effects of prolonged hypometabolism or stress.
The study also revealed that oxytocin, often called the “love hormone,” may play a role in regulating these neurons. Krause noted that oxytocin could influence how we perceive ourselves, akin to “gut feelings” or “heartache.”
Implications for Health and Beyond
The discovery has far-reaching implications. Researchers believe it could lead to treatments for cardiometabolic diseases like obesity and hypertension.Additionally, the ability to induce a hypometabolic state could extend longevity and even aid in long-duration space travel by slowing astronauts’ metabolic rates.
Guillaume de Lartigue, a co-author and researcher at the Monell Chemical Senses Center, described the findings as tapping into the body’s “energy-saving toolkit.” “By activating these neurons, we can trigger an ancient survival mechanism present in mammals,” he said. “If we can control the body’s on/off switch for energy use, the implications for human health are remarkable.”
A Novel Approach to Stress-Induced Diseases
Annette de Kloet, an associate professor of neuroscience at Georgia State, highlighted the potential for this research to address stress-induced cardiometabolic diseases.“This discovery may lead to novel approaches that take advantage of body-brain communication to alleviate conditions like obesity and hypertension,” she said.
The team’s work has garnered significant support, including a $3.4 million grant from the National Institutes of Health. Donald Hamelberg, interim vice president for research and economic development at Georgia State, praised the researchers for their remarkable vision and expertise.
key findings at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|—————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Neurons Identified | Control brain-heart-gut axis, induce hypometabolic state |
| activation Method | Chemogenetic excitation |
| Effects in Mice | Reduced body mass, heart rate, blood pressure, and energy expenditure |
| Therapeutic Potential | Weight loss, cardiometabolic disease treatment, space travel applications |
| Funding | $3.4 million grant from the National Institutes of Health |
This discovery marks a significant leap in understanding the intricate connections between the brain, heart, and gut. As research continues, the potential applications for human health and beyond are boundless.
What’s Next?
The team plans to further explore the therapeutic potential of these neurons,paving the way for innovative treatments and technologies that could reshape medicine and space exploration.Stay tuned for updates on this groundbreaking research.